Last Updated on April 2, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Mountain Dew is a refreshing yet highly-caffeinated drink popular with the young crowd. But was Mountain Dew made for whiskey?
In this post, you’ll learn more about the untold story of Mountain Dew and its link to whiskey. Read on.
Table of Contents
ToggleThe Truth About Mountain Dew & Whiskey Partnership
During the 1930s, original creators Barney and Ally Hartman, bottlers in Tennessee, had difficulty finding soda that could mix well with whiskey.
So being the inventive type, they created a new soft drink that would taste great with whiskey.
They came up with a citrus-flavored soda and called it “Mountain Dew” – a slang term for Highland Scotch Whiskey during the 19th century.
How The Modern Soda Came Into Existence
The modern soda came into existence when the Hartman brothers sold Mountain Dew to the Tip Corporation of Marion, Virginia.
The Mountain Dew before was caffeine-free, lemon-lime flavored, and clear-colored beverage. But, it didn’t look appealing to customers, so they gave it a makeover to boost sales.
There are different versions of the story. Tip Corporation’s Bill Jones tweaked the formula, and Tri-City Beverages’ plant manager, Bill Bridgeforth, added Tri-City Lemonade to Mountain Dew, resulting in a citrusy version.
No matter which version is valid, Mountain Dew is now the electric-colored, highly-caffeinated drink we all love.
Find out what states sell Hard Mountain Dew here.
What Is Mountain Dew Mixed With Whiskey Called?
Mountain Dew mixed with whiskey is commonly referred to as Mountain Jack.
To make a Mountain Jack cocktail recipe, you’ll need one Jack Daniel’s Tennessee whiskey and four Mountain Dew citrus sodas. Combine in an ice-filled Scotch glass and stir well.
Mountain Dew As A Whiskey Mix
Taste
The modern version of Mountain Dew doesn’t taste like the original recipe due to its more robust citrus flavor with added high fructose, caffeine, and citric acid.
Mountain Dew’s high fructose gives a distinct corn flavor, which is apparent when mixed with whiskey.
But does Hard Mountain Dew have caffeine?
People’s Perception
While some people may find this mix flavorful and delicious, some may find the taste off.
You may also find Mountain Dew better with other types of whiskey like Bourbon or Irish whiskeys than Scotch whiskey. You can try and experiment with different types and see what suits your taste best.
Do People Still Mix Them Now?
Yes, people still mix Mountain Dew and whiskey. Several cocktail recipes, like the famous Mountain Jack, Honey Dew, and Irish Redhead, use Mountain Dew as a mixer.
Learn how to fat-wash whiskey here.
Popular Mountain Dew & Whiskey Cocktail Recipes
Mountain Jack
Prep Time: 1 minute or less
Total Time: 1 minute
Ingredients:
- Ice cubes
- 120ml Mountain Dew
- 30ml Tennessee Whiskey (Jack Daniel’s)
Instructions:
Put the ice cubes in your whiskey glass, then pour in Mountain Dew and whiskey. Gently stir and serve. Garnish it with a lime wedge (optional).
Serving: 1
Honey Dew
Prep Time: 1 minute
Total Time: 1 minute
Ingredients:
- Ice cubes
- 180ml Mountain Dew
- 60ml Jack Daniel’s Honey whiskey
- Whipped cream
Instructions:
Get your rocks glass and put ice cubes. Pour whiskey and Mountain Dew, then stir. Top with whipped cream and serve.
Serving: 1
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Mountain Dew good for whiskey?
The suitability of Mountain Dew as a mixer for whiskey is largely subjective and depends on individual taste preferences. Mountain Dew, with its sweet and citrusy flavor profile, can complement certain types of whiskey, particularly those with robust or spicy characteristics. When combined with Mountain Dew, the whiskey’s flavors may be softened or enhanced, creating a unique and enjoyable drinking experience for some people.
However, it’s essential to recognize that mixing Mountain Dew with whiskey may not appeal to everyone, as the sweetness of the soda can mask or alter the whiskey’s natural flavors. Additionally, some whiskey enthusiasts prefer to enjoy their whiskey neat or with minimal additions to fully appreciate its complexity and nuances.
Ultimately, whether Mountain Dew is considered a good mixer for whiskey is a matter of personal preference. Experimenting with different combinations and ratios can help individuals discover their preferred flavor profile and enjoy their whiskey in a way that suits their tastes.
Did Mountain Dew have alcohol in it?
Originally introduced in the 1940s as a mixer for whiskey, Mountain Dew did not contain alcohol as part of its recipe. Instead, it was marketed as a carbonated soft drink with a citrus flavor profile. Mountain Dew’s name reportedly originated from a slang term for moonshine, but the beverage itself was non-alcoholic.
Over the years, Mountain Dew has undergone various formulations and flavor variations, but it has remained a non-alcoholic beverage. Today, Mountain Dew is produced and sold by PepsiCo and is one of the most popular carbonated soft drinks globally, known for its distinctive taste and vibrant branding.
While Mountain Dew may have been historically associated with whiskey as a mixer, the beverage itself does not contain alcohol and is consumed as a standalone soft drink by millions of people worldwide.
What was Mountain Dew a mixer for?
Mountain Dew was originally marketed as a mixer for whiskey when it was first introduced in the 1940s. The beverage’s citrus flavor profile and effervescence made it a popular choice for individuals looking to enhance the taste of their whiskey or mask its harshness with a sweet and refreshing soda.
As a mixer, Mountain Dew was often combined with whiskey to create simple and enjoyable mixed drinks, such as the classic “Mountain Dew and whiskey” cocktail. The sweetness of the soda complemented the whiskey’s flavors, creating a balanced and easy-to-drink beverage that appealed to many consumers.
While Mountain Dew’s association with whiskey as a mixer may have been its original intended use, the beverage has since become popular as a standalone soft drink enjoyed by people of all ages. Today, Mountain Dew is consumed in various ways, including as a mixer for other alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as on its own as a refreshing thirst quencher.
What alcohol goes well with Mountain Dew?
Mountain Dew’s sweet and citrusy flavor profile makes it a versatile mixer that pairs well with a variety of spirits. Some popular alcoholic beverages that complement Mountain Dew include:
Rum: Mountain Dew’s sweetness and citrus notes can enhance the tropical flavors of rum, creating refreshing and flavorful cocktails such as the “Dewdriver” or “Rum Dew.”
Vodka: Vodka’s neutral flavor profile allows Mountain Dew’s citrusy sweetness to shine through, resulting in easy-to-drink and refreshing cocktails like the “Mountain Dew Vodka” or “Green Russian.”
Tequila: Mountain Dew’s bright citrus flavors can complement the agave notes found in tequila, making it a suitable mixer for cocktails such as the “Dewgarita” or “Tequila Dew.”
Whiskey: While not as common as other pairings, some whiskey enthusiasts enjoy the combination of Mountain Dew and whiskey for a unique and flavorful twist on classic cocktails.
Ultimately, the best alcohol to pair with Mountain Dew depends on personal taste preferences and desired flavor profiles. Experimenting with different spirits and ratios can help individuals discover their preferred combination.
Which soda is best for whisky?
When it comes to pairing soda with whiskey, personal preference plays a significant role in determining the best choice. However, some sodas are more commonly used as mixers for whiskey due to their flavor profiles and compatibility with the spirit. Popular soda options for whiskey include:
Club soda: Club soda’s clean, crisp taste and effervescence make it a popular choice for whiskey mixers. It adds a refreshing fizz to whiskey cocktails without overpowering the spirit’s flavors.
Ginger ale: Ginger ale’s spicy and slightly sweet profile pairs well with whiskey, creating classic cocktails like the “Whiskey Ginger” or “Whiskey Highball.” The combination of whiskey and ginger ale is refreshing and versatile, suitable for both casual and upscale occasions.
Cola: Cola’s caramel sweetness and hints of vanilla complement the rich, caramelized flavors found in many whiskies. The iconic “Whiskey Coke” is a timeless cocktail enjoyed by whiskey enthusiasts around the world.
Ultimately, the best soda for whiskey depends on individual taste preferences and the desired flavor profile of the cocktail. Experimenting with different sodas and whiskey combinations can help individuals find their preferred mixer.
Is it OK to add soda to whisky?
Adding soda to whisky is a common practice and is generally accepted as a way to create refreshing and flavorful cocktails. The addition of soda can help mellow the intensity of the whiskey’s flavors and create a smoother, more approachable drink, particularly for those who are new to whiskey or prefer lighter, sweeter beverages.
However, whether it’s “OK” to add soda to whisky ultimately comes down to personal preference and individual taste. Some whiskey purists prefer to enjoy their whisky neat or with a splash of water to fully appreciate its complex flavors and aromas. Others enjoy experimenting with different mixers, including soda, to create unique and enjoyable cocktails.
As with any alcoholic beverage, moderation is key, and it’s essential to drink responsibly. Whether you choose to enjoy your whiskey neat, on the rocks, or mixed with soda, the most important thing is to savor and enjoy the experience.
Does Mountain Dew have 5% alcohol?
Mountain Dew, a popular carbonated soft drink produced by PepsiCo, does not contain alcohol in its standard formulation. It is known for its bold citrus flavor profile, vibrant green color, and high caffeine content. Mountain Dew is typically enjoyed as a non-alcoholic beverage and is available in various packaging sizes, including cans, bottles, and fountain drinks.
However, there have been instances where Mountain Dew-themed alcoholic beverages have been introduced as limited edition or specialty products. These products are typically collaborations between PepsiCo and alcoholic beverage companies and are released for a limited time or in specific markets.
These alcoholic beverages may incorporate elements of the Mountain Dew flavor profile while containing alcohol content. It’s important to note that these alcoholic beverages are separate from the standard Mountain Dew soft drink and are not part of the core product line.
When did Mountain Dew make alcohol?
While Mountain Dew has a long history as a non-alcoholic soft drink, the brand has occasionally ventured into the production of alcoholic beverages through collaborations with alcoholic beverage companies. These ventures typically result in limited edition or specialty products that capitalize on the Mountain Dew brand’s popularity and recognition.
The exact timeline for when Mountain Dew first collaborated with alcoholic beverage companies to produce alcoholic products can vary depending on specific releases and market availability. However, these collaborations have typically occurred sporadically over the years and have resulted in unique alcoholic beverages that incorporate elements of the Mountain Dew flavor profile.
These Mountain Dew-themed alcoholic beverages are often marketed as specialty or limited edition products, appealing to fans of the brand who are interested in trying new and innovative beverage offerings. They may feature distinctive packaging and branding that aligns with the Mountain Dew aesthetic while offering consumers a novel drinking experience.
Did Mountain Dew make a beer?
While Mountain Dew is primarily known for its soft drink products, there have been instances where Mountain Dew-themed beers or malt beverages have been introduced. These beverages are typically produced through collaborations between PepsiCo and breweries or alcoholic beverage companies and are marketed as specialty or limited edition products.
Mountain Dew-themed beers may incorporate elements of the soft drink’s flavor profile, such as citrus notes or sweetness, to create a unique and distinctive beverage experience. These collaborations leverage the popularity of the Mountain Dew brand to attract consumers who are interested in trying new and innovative beer offerings.
It’s important to note that Mountain Dew-themed beers are separate from the standard Mountain Dew soft drink and are not part of the core product line. These beverages are typically released for a limited time or in specific markets and may not be widely available. As with any alcoholic beverage, it’s essential to drink responsibly and in moderation.
In summary, while Mountain Dew is primarily known for its non-alcoholic soft drink products, the brand has occasionally ventured into the production of alcoholic beverages through collaborations with alcoholic beverage companies. These collaborations have resulted in unique and innovative products that capitalize on the Mountain Dew brand’s popularity and recognition, offering consumers new and exciting beverage options to enjoy.
What was the original reason for Mountain Dew?
Mountain Dew originated as a mixer for whiskey in the Appalachian region of the United States during the 1940s. It was initially created by Barney and Ally Hartman, two beverage bottlers in Tennessee, who developed the formula for Mountain Dew as a citrus-flavored mixer for whiskey. The name “Mountain Dew” was reportedly slang for moonshine or homemade whiskey in the region where the drink was first created.
Over time, Mountain Dew evolved from its origins as a whiskey mixer to become a standalone carbonated soft drink. In 1964, the rights to Mountain Dew were acquired by the Pepsi-Cola company, which began marketing and distributing the beverage on a larger scale. Mountain Dew’s popularity grew steadily, and it eventually became one of the most recognizable and widely consumed soft drinks in the United States and around the world.
Who invented Mt Dew?
Mountain Dew was invented by Barney and Ally Hartman, two beverage bottlers in Tennessee, during the 1940s. The Hartman brothers developed the formula for Mountain Dew as a citrus-flavored mixer for whiskey, capitalizing on the popularity of citrus-flavored sodas in the region. The name “Mountain Dew” was reportedly slang for moonshine or homemade whiskey in the Appalachian region where the drink was first created.
The Hartman brothers initially marketed Mountain Dew as a mixer for whiskey, but the beverage eventually gained popularity as a standalone soft drink. In 1964, the rights to Mountain Dew were acquired by the Pepsi-Cola company, which began marketing and distributing the beverage on a larger scale. Mountain Dew’s distinctive flavor and branding contributed to its widespread popularity, making it one of the most recognizable and successful soft drink brands in the world.
What flavor is Mountain Dew original?
The original flavor of Mountain Dew is citrus-based, with a bold and refreshing taste that combines lemon and lime flavors. Mountain Dew’s signature flavor profile is characterized by its vibrant green color and distinctive citrus aroma. The original Mountain Dew formula was developed by Barney and Ally Hartman, who created the beverage as a citrus-flavored mixer for whiskey during the 1940s.
Over the years, Mountain Dew has introduced various flavor variations and limited edition releases, but the original citrus flavor remains the most iconic and widely recognized. Mountain Dew’s original flavor continues to be a favorite among consumers worldwide, contributing to the brand’s enduring popularity and success in the soft drink market.
So, Was Mountain Dew Made For Whiskey?
To our surprise, Mountain Dew was not really created as a soft drink alone. It was made as a spirit mixer – mainly for whiskey.
Though Mountain Dew today is the altered version of the original Mountain Dew recipe, it is still one of the best whiskey chasers alongside ginger beer [1], orange juice, cola, etc.
If you haven’t tried combining your favorite whiskey with Mountain Dew, it’s time to experiment. You can try the popular whiskey and Mountain Dew recipes above for a new drinking experience. Cheers!
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